Menu Close

Disclosure: FMB Home Picks is committed to delivering independent advice and reviews on home products and services. When you purchase through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.     Learn more     Contact us.

Federation of Master Builders site icon

Home Picks

Independent reviews and advice on products and services for your home
All Articles Boilers Energy saving advice Heat pumps Home emergency cover Home security Kitchens News Solar panels Windows
04 July 2024 Double glazing windows companies 2024 Save up to £235 annually on your energy bills with new windows. The Federation of Master Builders reviews the best double glazing windows companies in …
Windows
16 October 2024 Solar panels on a flat roof explained
Solar panels
09 October 2024 AIKO ABC Neostar 3N54 495W solar panels review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 Effective Home solar installer review
Solar panels
09 October 2024 Solar panel sizes and dimensions in the UK
Solar panels
09 October 2024 JA Solar JAM72S30 LR 585W solar panels review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 Peimar SM325M solar panels review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 REC Alpha Pure RX Series 470W solar panels review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 Sharp Sunsnap solar panels review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 Project Solar Evo Max Super Series 480W solar panels review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 SunPower Maxeon 7DC 445W solar panel review
Solar panels
13 September 2024 Longi Hi-Mo 4 solar panels review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 Q.TRON BLK M-G2+ 430W review
Solar panels
16 October 2024 LG NeON H BiFacial solar panels review (no longer in production)
Solar panels
16 October 2024 Panasonic solar panel review
Solar panels
10 July 2024 Windows prices: How much do new windows cost in 2024? Get the latest information on new windows costs and reduce your energy bills by up to £235 annually. The Federation of Master Builders compares 2024 …
Windows
04 July 2024 Double glazing windows companies 2024 Save up to £235 annually on your energy bills with new windows. The Federation of Master Builders reviews the best double glazing windows companies in …
Windows
04 July 2024 Best solar panels in the UK The best solar panels in the UK will help you make significant savings on your energy bills and add value to your home. Discover the …
Solar panels
09 July 2024 Best solar panel installers 2024 Discover the best solar panel installers that work nationally and compare specifics, such as warranty offers, brand range, certifications and reputation.
Solar panels
09 July 2024 Solar panels: a complete guide to solar panels for your home From the initial research stage right through to installation, our guide answers all your questions about solar panels in the UK, including potential savings and …
Solar panels
21 June 2024 Triple glazed windows: Are they right for you? Triple glazing is an eco alternative to double glazed windows, but is it worth the increased cost? Find out the benefits and disadvantages with our …
Windows
20 June 2024 Double glazing grants Save £235 annually on your energy bills with double glazing windows. The Federation of Master Builders explains what financial help is available
Windows
29 April 2024 Best solar powered security cameras 2024 The best solar powered security cameras will help you achieve peace of mind and protect your home using the sun’s energy.
Home security
09 October 2024 Flexible solar panels Find out what flexible solar panels are and assess whether they might be a good option for you in terms of budget, design, efficiency and …
Solar panels
28 March 2024 Best pet cameras 2024 Discover the best pet cameras on the market in 2024. In this guide, we look at some of the best options for a range of …
Home security
28 March 2024 Integrated solar panels Weigh up the pros and cons of choosing an integrated solar panel system, including costs, efficiency and installation complexity
Solar panels
28 March 2024 What are solar thermal panels? Solar thermal panels use the sun’s rays to provide hot water to houses – find out if they’re worth the investment
Solar panels
28 March 2024 Bifold doors guide Discover the elegance and practicality of bifold doors. Transform your space with seamless indoor-outdoor living, enhancing light and aesthetics.
Windows
09 October 2024 Aluminium windows guide Aluminium windows are a versatile and modern alternative to uPVC and timber window frames. Find out how much they cost and what maintence is involved
Windows
25 March 2024 Solar roof tiles: What are they and how much do they cost? Discover the stylish solar panel options that are solar roof tiles – designed to blend in with any home, but at a price
Solar panels
22 March 2024 Secondary glazing windows guide Discover the benefits of secondary glazing windows. This detailed guide gives you all the information to help you decide if secondary glazing is right for …
Windows
22 March 2024 What are window trickle vents? Our comprehensive guide to window trickle vents explores their benefits and uses and explains how they improve your home’s air quality and reduce condensation.
Windows
19 March 2024 Types of solar cells explained Read our complete guide to the different types of solar cells available, so that you can choose the right panel for your needs.
Solar panels
15 March 2024 What is the best video doorbell in 2024? Discover our pick of the best video doorbells in 2024. In this guide, we compare some of the best doorbells on the market for your …
Home security
15 March 2024 Solar panels for caravans, campervans and motorhomes Find out if you can power your motorhome using solar panels, including how much energy is required and how much they cost
Solar panels
15 March 2024 Composite windows guide Composite windows are a durable and low-maintenance option – we delve into how much they cost and how to compare quotes
Windows
15 March 2024 Living off-grid: Is it possible in the UK? Find out what it takes to live off grid and what steps need to be taken to complete energy independence.
Solar panels
08 March 2024 Ground-mounted solar panels Ground-mounted solar panels are an alternative way to install this renewable technology. Discover if it costs more than roof-mounted types and how much space is …
Solar panels
08 March 2024 How much do sash windows cost? Sash windows are a characterful and useful window style – but how much will it cost when it comes to repair or replace them? Find …
Windows
28 February 2024 A guide to casement windows Explore the benefits and design versatility of casement windows. Discover their energy efficiency, security features, designs and prices
Windows
09 October 2024 Wooden windows guide Explore the beauty and benefits of wooden windows: sustainable, energy efficient, and perfect for adding charm to any home
Windows
19 February 2024 Georgian windows guide Discover Georgian windows’ timeless elegance and charm in our comprehensive guide to double glazing. Explore their history, styles, and benefits
Windows
16 February 2024 What are the best smart locks in 2024? Discover the best smart locks on the market in 2024. Our detailed guide breaks down several different smart locks for a range of different homeowners …
Home security
16 February 2024 Bosch home security system review Our researchers have reviewed Bosch’s home security packages analysing, cost, features and customer reviews.
Home security
16 February 2024 Cheap solar panels Discover if cheap solar panels are any good, or is more expensive options are worth the money.
Solar panels
07 December 2023 Nest home security cameras review Find out which are the best Nest home security products with our expert guide.
Home security
07 December 2023 Arlo home security cameras review We review Arlo home security cameras, comparing the performance, effectiveness and cost to competitors on the market
Home security
07 December 2023 SimpliSafe home security cameras review We review SimpliSafe home security cameras, accessing their features, performance and cost against others on the market.
Home security
01 December 2023 Best home security cameras 2024 Discover what makes the best home security camera on the market with our expert review that compares and analyses features, installation and cost.
Home security
24 November 2023 Ring home security cameras review We review Ring home security cameras, assessing their performances, features and costs, against others on the market
Home security
17 November 2023 How much does it cost to double glaze a three-bed house? Discover how much it will cost to add double glazing to the average three bed house and what to consider when choosing and installing new …
Windows
30 August 2024 A guide to solar panels in Scotland Find out what extra consideration are needed when installing solar panels in Scotland, including, if they’re worth it and how much it will cost.
Solar panels
06 November 2023 How much electricity does a solar panel produce? Discover how much electricity to expect from your solar panels and what affects production with our guide.
Solar panels
13 October 2023 Best solar inverter 2024 guide A solar inverter is an integral part of a solar PV system. This guide covers everything you need to know about them, from their purpose …
Solar panels
13 October 2023 Solar panels in Northern Ireland guide Living in Northern Ireland and looking to install solar panels? Our expert guide will detail anything to consider that’s different to other areas in the …
Solar panels
06 October 2023 Tilt and turn windows An in-depth look into tilt and turn windows, their pros and cons, and reasons why you should consider investing in them.
Windows
05 October 2023 Coloured uPVC windows A comprehensive dive into understanding the different types of colours you can choose for your uPVC windows.
Windows
10 October 2024 How we review combi boilers: Tests, analysis and comparisons Our experts have conducted comprehensive tests, analysis, and in-depth comparisons to write our combi boiler reviews.
Boilers
11 July 2024 How we review windows: Our methodology for testing and rating windows Our experts have conducted comprehensive tests, thorough analysis and in-depth comparisons to write our window reviews.
Windows
11 July 2024 How we review home security systems: Our methodology explained Our expert team meticulously evaluates each home security system we review, assessing its quality, attributes, performance, and cost-effectiveness.
Home security
07 August 2024 How we review solar panels: Our methodology for testing and rating solar panels Our experts have conducted comprehensive tests, thorough analysis and in-depth comparisons to write our solar panel reviews.
Solar panels
08 June 2023 Hey! home security system review (no longer trading) Our home security experts have analysed and tested products from the Hey! range for over 150 hours in order to provide you with an accurate …
Home security
10 July 2024 How much do solar panels cost? How much do solar panels cost? Get the latest prices from our experts and discover what factors affect the cost of solar panels.
Solar panels
06 August 2024 Solar panel cleaning and maintenance tips Discover essential cleaning techniques, safety measures, and maintenance tips to keep your solar panels operating at their best.
Solar panels
10 May 2023 Can smart meters work with solar panels? Find out if solar panels and smart metres can work together to create the ultimate energy-efficient household
Solar panels
10 May 2023 7 reasons why you should use solar power Discover the most enticing reasons to choose solar power, including energy-efficiency and increased property value
Solar panels
09 May 2023 Solar panel jargon buster: An A to Z guide to green terms Learn the terms used when installing solar panels
Solar panels
12 April 2023 Arlo home security system review Arlo is an award-winning home security company providing video doorbells, monitored alarms, 4K-capable HDR-enhanced cameras, and smart hubs.
Home security
12 April 2023 Yale home security system review Yale is a trusted home security system with efficient smart cameras, including sirens and lights, perfect for homes and small businesses.
Home security
12 April 2023 Abode home security system review We review the many features that make Abode one of the best home security systems in the UK.
Home security
09 February 2024 Verisure home security system review This review finds out how Verisure stacks up against the best home security systems in the UK.
Home security
15 February 2024 SimpliSafe home security system review We review the SimpliSafe home security system as we continue to search for the best home security systems in the UK.
Home security
06 April 2023 ADT Fire & Security home security system review ADT Fire & Security is a trusted home security system providing residential and business properties with intruder alarms, video doorbells, and CCTV.
Home security
09 January 2023 Boiler cover guide 2024 The Federation of Master Builders examines the types of boiler cover available and the best companies that provide boiler insurance.
Boilers
09 December 2022 Doors and windows – a guide to costs, styles, types and deals The Federation of Master Builders explains the benefits of installing new doors and windows, as well as the styles available.
Windows
21 November 2022 Surge in UK residential solar panel installations The UK is seeing the biggest surge in residential solar panel installations in years as the breakeven point gets shorter
News
18 November 2022 Barclays Greener Home Reward scheme offers customers £1,000 to install solar panels Barclays is offering its UK residential mortgage customers £1,000 towards solar panels, double glazing, air source heat pumps and home insulation
News
08 May 2024 Anglian vs Everest – double glazing windows review Anglian vs Everest – how do these two big names in the double glazing windows industry compare? We examine all the details, weighing up the …
Windows
27 October 2022 Vaillant flexoTHERM 400V + aroCOLLECT air source heat pump review Find out more about the Vaillant flexoTHERM 400V + aroCOLLECT, an exceptionally quiet and efficient air source heat pump system.
Heat pumps
25 October 2022 Danfoss air source heat pump review Find out more about Danfoss air source heat pumps and see which model could be a good choice for your home energy needs.
Heat pumps
25 October 2022 LG Therma V air source heat pump review Find out if this solution is a good fit for you and your home in our LG Therma V air source heat pump review.
Heat pumps
25 October 2022 Viessmann Vitocal 200-A air source heat pump review We review the Viessmann Vitocal 200-A as we continue to search for the best air source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
15 March 2023 uPVC windows – a guide to cost, lifespan, repairs and other tips Save over £230 on your energy bills with uPVC windows. The Federation of Master Builders explains costs, styles, lifespan and repairs
Windows
21 October 2022 Viessmann Vitocal 100-A air source heat pump review We look at how the Viessmann Vitocal 100-A measures up against other air source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
20 October 2022 Nibe F2040 air source heat pump review We review the Nibe F2040 to see if this air source heat pump is a good fit for you and your home.
Heat pumps
20 October 2022 Daikin Altherma 3 air source heat pump review We review the Daikin Altherma 3 as we continue to evaluate the best air source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
20 October 2022 Samsung EHS Monobloc air source heat pump review The Samsung EHS Monobloc air source heat pump is a self-contained, compact and lightweight outdoor unit ideal for both domestic and commercial use.
Heat pumps
18 October 2022 Safestyle double glazing windows review We take a closer look at Safestyle double glazing windows. The company has gone into administration as of 27 October 2023.
Windows
19 October 2022 Britannia double glazing windows Our review takes a closer look at Britannia double glazing windows as we search for the best installers in the UK.
Windows
18 November 2022 10 ways to cut your energy bills this winter Following these steps can save you some serious money off your energy bills
Energy saving advice
26 October 2022 First Home Improvements double glazing windows reviews What makes First Home Improvements one of the best window companies in the UK? Find out if the company is a good choice for you.
Windows
26 October 2022 CR Smith double glazing windows review In this review, we help you decide if CR Smith is the best choice for your double glazing windows project.
Windows
20 March 2024 Are solar batteries worth it? Learn how solar batteries can maximise your solar panels’ efficiency, and save you money on your energy bills
Solar panels
02 December 2022 How much money can you save with solar panels? The Federation of Master Builders explains how solar panels can save you hundreds on your energy bills and how solar panels pay for themselves
Energy saving advice
29 September 2022 Ideal Logic C30 combi boiler review Does the Ideal Logic C30 boiler deserve to be called one of the best combi boilers in the UK? We review this boiler in detail …
Boilers
23 September 2022 Glow-worm Energy LPG combi boiler review What makes the Glow-worm Energy LPG one of the best combi boilers available in the UK? We take a close look at this boiler to …
Boilers
20 December 2022 How much does a new kitchen cost? How much does a new kitchen cost? We do the maths so you can prepare a more informed budget for your project.
Kitchens
16 September 2022 How much money can you save with a new boiler? We look at the four most common boiler types and how much money you can save on your energy bills by investing in a new …
Boilers
16 September 2022 Vaillant ecoTEC exclusive Green iQ 835 combi boiler review In this review, we take a closer look at the Vaillant ecoTEC exclusive Green iQ 835 as we continue to evaluate the best combi boilers …
Boilers
08 May 2024 Everest double glazing windows review We review Everest windows to find out how this double glazing window company stacks up against the competition.
Windows
20 December 2022 What does a combi boiler cost? What is a combi boiler and how does it work? How much does a combi boiler cost? We take a closer look to find out.
Boilers
09 February 2024 SEG: Selling solar power back to the National Grid Earn hundreds annually by selling solar power to the grid. The Federation of Master Builders explains how to sell back to the grid and make …
Solar panels
23 May 2024 What is double glazing and how it works The Federation of Master Builders explains how double glazing works, its benefits and how it could save you up to £235 on your energy bills …
Windows
05 September 2022 What are the government grants for renewable energy? Save £800 annually by installing solar panels. The Federation of Master Builders explains the available Government grants for renewable energy
Energy saving advice
02 September 2022 7 ways to cut your heating bill this winter With the cost of living crisis and rising energy prices, how can you cut your heating bill this winter? Here are our top ways to …
Energy saving advice
21 October 2022 7 ways to cut your electric bill this winter Paying the ever-rising bills can seem impossible, and with winter getting closer, families are worried. We’ve found several great ideas to cut your electric bill
Energy saving advice
02 September 2022 What happens if I don’t pay my electric bill? If you are struggling to pay your electric bill, there are lots of things you can do to make life easier. Our detailed guide can …
Energy saving advice
17 October 2022 Your guide to the Cost of Living payments Our guide tells you about the UK Government’s Cost of Living Payments and if you’re eligible.
Energy saving advice
29 November 2022 Cost of living crisis – everything you need to know What is the cost of living crisis and the energy price cap? We explain why they are happening, how they affect you and what you …
Energy saving advice
02 September 2022 How to have an energy efficient house Reduced bills and carbon emissions are due to having an energy efficient house, and there’s government funding to help achieve this. Find out more here.
Energy saving advice
27 February 2023 How to get energy bills help Millions of UK households are struggling to cope financially and, whether considered vulnerable or not, are seeking help with energy bills. Times are tough, but …
Energy saving advice
26 August 2022 Viessmann Vitodens 050-W combi boiler review Read our Viessmann Vitodens 050-W combi boiler review to get all the information you need to decide whether this boiler is a good fit for …
Boilers
26 August 2022 Ideal Vogue Combi boiler review In this review, we examine the Ideal Vogue Combi boiler to help you decide if it’s the best combi boiler option for your home.
Boilers
26 August 2022 Ideal Logic+ combi boiler review This Ideal Logic+ Combi boiler review assesses its efficiency, performance, added features and price tag. Find out if this model is a good fit for …
Boilers
25 August 2022 Baxi Platinum Combi boiler review We review the Baxi Platinum Combi boiler to help you decide whether it’s the right fit for your home in terms of your budget and …
Boilers
20 December 2022 Worcester Bosch Combi Greenstar 4000 combi boiler review What makes the Worcester Bosch Greenstar 4000 one of the best combi boilers on the UK market? We take a closer look to find out.
Boilers
27 October 2022 Trade Glazing Direct double glazing windows review We look at the pros and cons of choosing Trade Glazing Direct to supply your new windows.
Windows
02 November 2023 Britelite double glazing windows review We take a closer look at Britelite to help you find the best window provider for your home and budget.
Windows
19 August 2022 Worcester Bosch Greenstar 2000 combi boiler review We examine the compact Worcester Bosch Greenstar 2000 combi boiler to help you determine whether or not it’s the right fit for your home.
Boilers
23 August 2022 What is a combi boiler and how do combi boilers work? Combi boilers, which can provide hot water without a storage tank, are the most common type of home boilers. Here’s all you need to know …
Boilers
22 August 2022 Viessmann Vitodens 111-W B1LD-35 storage combi boiler review In this review, we look at the Viessmann Vitodens 111-W B1LD-35 storage combi boiler to find out if it’s the best combi boiler for your …
Boilers
14 October 2022 Anglian double glazing windows reviews Considering double glazing? We take a closer look at Anglian to see how it performs in terms of product range, price, quality and warranties.
Windows
26 October 2022 Crystal Windows and Doors double glazing review We take a closer look at Crystal Windows and Doors to help you find the best double-glazing installer for your home.
Windows
25 October 2022 Coral Windows double glazing windows review Are you searching for the best company to supply and install your new windows? Find out more about Coral Windows, including its products, prices and …
Windows
08 July 2024 Solar panel grants and funding in the UK Save up to £1,200 annually on your energy bills. The Federation of Master Builders outlines what solar panel grants are available in 2024
Solar panels
04 October 2022 Hitachi Yutaki S combi air source heat pump review We examine the Hitachi Yutaki S Combi as we continue to search for the best air source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
05 August 2022 Lux Group Holdings fitted kitchens review This review takes a closer look at the subsidiaries of Lux Group Holdings including Smallbone, Mark Wilkinson Furniture, and McCarron, and their approach to supplying …
Kitchens
02 August 2022 Neptune fitted kitchens review What makes Neptune one of the best kitchen suppliers in the UK? We look at their range, pricing and service offering to find out.
Kitchens
02 August 2022 John Lewis fitted kitchens review Is John Lewis the right kitchen supplier for you? We’ve reviewed the brand’s selection of kitchens and services to find out.
Kitchens
02 August 2022 Homebase fitted kitchens review Is Homebase one of the best kitchen suppliers in the UK? We review the brand’s range, products and services to find out what makes them …
Kitchens
01 August 2022 Harvey Jones fitted kitchens review We take a closer look at Harvey Jones kitchens to find out what makes them one of the best new kitchen suppliers in the UK.
Kitchens
28 July 2022 Magnet fitted kitchens review In this Magnet kitchen review, we find out what makes the brand one of the best kitchen suppliers in the UK in 2022.
Kitchens
28 July 2022 B&Q kitchen fitted kitchens review We review B&Q kitchens as we look for the best new kitchen suppliers in the UK in 2022.
Kitchens
28 July 2022 Howdens fitted kitchens review We look at why Howdens are among the best kitchen brands in the UK in terms of quality and range of choices.
Kitchens
05 January 2023 Best fitted kitchens suppliers in the UK 2024 The experts at the Federation of Master Builders compare and reveal the best fitted kitchens in the UK
Kitchens
27 July 2022 Nibe S ground source heat pump review We review the Nibe S ground source heat pump as we evaluate the best ground source heating system for UK homeowners.
Heat pumps
27 July 2022 Viessmann Vitocal 200-G ground source heat pump review We evaluate the Viessmann Vitocal 200-G as we look for the best ground source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
26 July 2022 Wickes fitted kitchens review We review Wickes kitchens as we search for the best new kitchen suppliers in the UK.
Kitchens
20 December 2022 IKEA fitted kitchens review Find out what makes IKEA one of the best kitchen suppliers in the UK in 2022 for homeowners looking for affordability and style.
Kitchens
26 July 2022 British Standard fitted kitchens review Does British Standard deserve to be named one of the best kitchen suppliers in the UK? We take a look at their products to find …
Kitchens
22 July 2022 Ecoforest ecoGEO ground source heat pump review Ecoforest ecoGEO review: a comprehensive review of Ecoforest ecoGEO ground source heat pump in 2022
Heat pumps
22 July 2022 Vaillant geoTHERM ground source heat pumps review This review evaluates the Vaillant geoTHERM as we examine the best ground source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
09 February 2024 Ring home security system review In this review, we look into Ring as we evaluate the best home security systems in the UK.
Home security
22 July 2022 Kensa Shoebox ground source heat pump review We review the Kensa Shoebox – is it one of the best ground source heat pumps in the UK?
Heat pumps
22 July 2022 Viessmann Vitocal 350-G Pro ground source heat pump review Our comprehensive review of Viessmann Vitocal 350-G Pro ground source heat pump.
Heat pumps
21 July 2022 Worcester-Bosch Greenstore LECP review We review the Worcester-Bosch Greenstore LECP as we look for the best ground source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
21 July 2022 Mitsubishi Ecodan air source heat pumps review We examine the performance, cost and efficiency of the Mitsubishi Ecodan as we look for the best air source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
21 July 2022 Hitachi Yutaki M air source heat pump review The Hitachi Yutaki M is a compact and efficient air source heat pump ideal for domestic heating and hot water.
Heat pumps
07 December 2022 Sharp Sunsnap ND F2Q235 solar panel review We take a closer look at the Sharp Sunsnap ND-F2Q235 to help you find the best solar panel in the UK for you and your …
Solar panels
04 March 2024 Are solar panels worth it? How solar panels pay back in 2024 Save hundreds on your energy bill and earn money selling energy to the grid. The Federation of Master Builders explains savings and return on investment
Solar panels
31 October 2022 How do solar panels work Save hundreds on your energy bills with solar panels. The Federation of Master Builders explains the science behind how solar panels work and their benefits
Solar panels
27 June 2022 Vaillant flexoTHERM ground source heat pump review We review the Vaillant flexoTHERM ground source heat pump in a bit to find the best ground source heating system in the UK.
Heat pumps
28 June 2022 Kensa Evo ground source heat pump review We review the Kensa Evo as we look for the best ground source heat pumps in the UK.
Heat pumps
02 July 2024 Best home security systems in the UK 2024 Discover the best home security systems in the UK in 2024. This detailed guides reviews the top smart home security systems from the UK’s leading …
Home security
04 January 2023 Best air source heat pumps in the UK 2024 Choosing the best air source heat pump can be challenging in 2024. By following our comprehensive guide, you can choose the best air source heat …
Heat pumps
05 July 2024 Best combi boilers in the UK 2024 Choosing the right combi boiler can be a challenge. We’ve analysed dozens of products to arrive at the five best combi boilers for 2024
Boilers
04 January 2023 Best ground source heat pumps in the UK 2024 We’ve analysed over 20 ground source heat pumps and identified the top ones on the market. These are our recommendations.
Heat pumps
04 January 2023 Best home emergency cover in the UK 2024 We researched the best five home emergency cover brands in the UK and analysed their services and policies. These are our conclusions.
Home emergency cover